Governance Division Manager

Under the general supervision of the Chief Administrative Officer or designate, the Governance Division Manager leads the shíshálh Nation's Governance Division. You will play a pivotal role in advancing the Nation's strategic goals by coordinating negotiation files, legal processes, government-to-government relationships, and internal governance development. This role includes the oversight of key personnel (including the Senior Negotiator, when required) and requires the incumbent to liaise with legal counsel, external governments, and Nation staff. The position supports the exercise of the shíshálh Nation's jurisdiction and upholds the vision of self-determination and sovereignty. You will need to be aware of all changes in provincial and federal political positions or enhancements that may impact the Nation's position or intergovernmental relations.

The Candidate:

Service Delivery

• Promote a culture of "Service Excellence" throughout the department.
• Set a tone of leadership that is people-oriented, collaborative and focused on data-based decision-making.
• As directed, assist with strategic planning sessions and work collaboratively to assist the Nation in building local government processes leading to a governance law.

Negotiations Management

• Lead and coordinate negotiation processes involving land, title, fiscal agreements, and jurisdictional recognition.
• Develop and implement negotiation strategies and ensure alignment with Council mandates.
• Prepare briefing packages, mandates, and position papers for the Chief and Council.
• Represent or support the Nation at technical and political negotiation tables.
• Maintain accurate records, timelines, and document controls for all negotiation files.

Legal Coordination

• Coordinate all legal input related to governance initiatives, including laws, policies, bylaws, and external agreements.
• Serve as a liaison between external legal counsel and internal departments.
• Track legal files and provide updates and briefings to the Chief Administrative Officer and Council as required.
• Review legal documents and assist in preparing recommendations or legal positions.

Staff and Team Management

• Provide leadership and management to the Governance Division team.
• Direct and supervise the work of the Senior Negotiator and other staff as required.
• Develop annual work plans, monitor performance, and report on results.
• Manage the Division's budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with strategic priorities.
• Ensure teams are working collaboratively with other departments (e.g., Lands, Rights & Title, Legal, Administration Office).
• Oversee compliance with internal policies and ensure staff development and training.

Government-to-Government (G2G) Support

• Facilitate high-level intergovernmental engagement with provincial, federal, Indigenous, and regional governments.
• Prepare correspondence, briefings, speaking notes, and background materials for G2G meetings.
• Support Council's participation in strategic G2G agreements and governance advancement opportunities.
• Monitor policy changes and developments in other levels of government that may affect the Nation's rights or interests.

• Master's Degree in Indigenous Governance, Law, Public Administration, Political Science or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in governance, legal support, or negotiations, preferably in an Indigenous or government setting.
• A minimum of 10 years of proven experience proven management and federal experience in leading teams and handling complex governance or legal portfolios.
• In-depth understanding of Indigenous title, rights, and governance frameworks.
• Strong knowledge of legal processes, negotiations, and intergovernmental affairs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including technical and legal writing.
• High-level analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• Proficiency with project management, documentation systems, and governance software tools is an asset.
• Familiarity with the shíshálh Nation's culture, language, and traditions is a strong asset.
• Ability to build and maintain respectful relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including Chiefs, Councillors, staff, legal counsel, and government officials.
• Strong listening, diplomacy, and conflict-resolution skills, especially in high-stakes or sensitive negotiations.
• Cultural awareness and humility, with a demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in an Indigenous context.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills with the ability to motivate staff and resolve personnel issues respectfully.
• A valid Driver's license and an acceptable Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search.